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Cell phone and global-positioning system (GPS) technology now often show up in one single device. After the FCC mandated 911 tracking ability in all cell phone models, service carriers added GPS technology in their handsets. Several ways exist to activate GPS for your own personal use. Whether it&#039;s finding a lost cell phone or getting directions to that popular new restaurant, there are several methods to make global positioning work for you. Depending on what service is selected, GPS usage may even be free.

Items you will need

Cell phone with GPS chip technology

Usage plan with monthly subscription billing

Step 1

Check your phone&#039;s specs to see what type of GPS you&#039;ll be able to use. A smartphone running on Windows Mobile, Mac OS or Android can use a range of GPS methods including free applications and secret phone tracking. However, another type of phone might need a subscription-based software download for GPS to work.

Step 2

Find the necessary application (also known as an app) for your cell phone. Most phones have a direct link right on the home screen to the carrier&#039;s software apps, since they must be specialized for the phone&#039;s operating system. There are GPS apps for all of the major phone operating systems including Android, Windows Mobile and Mac OS. If you don&#039;t find the GPS software, call your carrier to have them send the program to your phone or help you find it.

Step 3

Read the software privacy policy before installation. By skipping this important step, a user could leave the door open for possible data compromise and surprise tracking. According to NPR&#039;s Melody Joy Kramer, "To protect yourself, privacy experts suggest reading all privacy policies for any software you download to your mobile phone &mdash; there should be language indicating whether your information could be sold to a vendor." The policy will also state under which circumstances your information may be shared, and who is responsible for the security of the data.

Step 4

Install and set up the software. Programs like TeleNav require payment for activation and usage, while Google Maps simply needs installation. The subscription program fee shows up on your bill as part of your monthly payment.

Step 5

Visit the software company&#039;s website to activate the tracking program. For some services, it&#039;s necessary to register through their corporate site in order to have service. This, in turn, allows useful features like covert tracking if the phone is stolen, or to monitor a teen carrying the unit. To register, set up a user account and consent to tracking. Note that these services often officially disallow hidden tracking.

References

About the Author

Gigi Starr is a freelance fashion writer. She previously served as the blog editor for a major online fashion blog and has more than a decade of backstage experience in the beauty and high fashion industries. She has worked for businesses like an internationally renowned theatrical touring company and events such as the Mercedes-Benz N.Y.C. Fashion Week.